Call for a Thorough and Transparent Investigation into the Alleged Sexual Harassment Case at Maryam Abacha American University (MAUN
The Centre for Awareness on Justice and Accountability (CAJA) has followed with deep concern the allegations of attempted sexual harassment involving a lecturer at Maryam Abacha American University (MAUN) and his female student, who is also reported to be his project supervisee.
Sexual harassment in tertiary institutions undermines the dignity, safety, and academic freedom of students. It erodes trust in educational institutions and creates an environment of fear and intimidation that is incompatible with learning and personal development. At the same time, allegations of this nature should be investigated through a fair, impartial, and credible process that respects the rights of everyone involved.
We therefore call on the management of Maryam Abacha American University to immediately constitute an independent and credible investigative committee comprising relevant stakeholders, including representatives of the university management, academic staff, legal practitioners where appropriate, student representatives, gender and safeguarding experts, and other persons of proven integrity. Such a committee should be mandated to conduct a thorough, transparent, and timely investigation into the allegations and make recommendations that will ensure justice is done in accordance with the law and the university’s regulations.
We urge the university to ensure that the complainant, witnesses, and all parties involved are protected from intimidation, victimization, or retaliation throughout the investigative process. The integrity of the process and the confidence of the university community depend on these safeguards.
Beyond this particular case, we call on Maryam Abacha American University and all tertiary institutions in Kano State to develop, strengthen, and effectively implement comprehensive institutional policies on the prevention and response to sexual harassment. Such policies should clearly define prohibited conduct, establish accessible and confidential reporting mechanisms, guarantee fair investigative procedures, provide support for survivors, protect against retaliation, and prescribe appropriate sanctions where misconduct is established.
Importantly, these policies should be inclusive, regularly reviewed, and widely disseminated so that students, academic and non-academic staff, governing bodies, and all relevant stakeholders are aware of their rights, responsibilities, and the procedures for reporting and addressing complaints.
We call on all stakeholders to allow due process to take its course while remaining committed to accountability, transparency, and justice.
Signed:
Adam Auwal Dakata,
Advocacy and Communication Officer.